The MEWO Kunsthalle in Memmingen, Bavaria, Germany, is a vibrant cultural hub housed in a building steeped in history. This venue for contemporary art, as well as 19th and 20th-century art, is a must-visit for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. The Kunsthalle is located in the former main post office building near the railway station, a structure that has seen various uses over the years, adding layers of historical charm to its current role as an art exhibition space.
The building that now houses the MEWO Kunsthalle was originally constructed in 1901 as a royal post office. This late-classicist structure served as a post office until 1990. Between 1990 and 1996, it temporarily housed the local court while its permanent building underwent renovations. From 1999 to 2001, it even served as a temporary railway station during the construction of a new station building nearby.
In 2002, the Memminger Wohnungsbaugenossenschaft eG (MEWO) acquired the building, known as the Alte Post, and undertook an extensive renovation project costing over 4 million euros. The building was then generously made available to the city for use as an art hall, rent-free. After significant refurbishment, the MEWO Kunsthalle officially opened its doors on November 25, 2005.
The Kunsthalle was initially led by Joseph Kiermeier-Debre from 2005 to 2011. Since November 2012, art historian Axel Lapp has been at the helm, implementing a dynamic exhibition concept with an increased number of shorter exhibitions, ensuring that there is always something new and exciting for visitors to experience.
The MEWO Kunsthalle is an architectural gem, with its brick facade accented by corner risalits and stone trimmings. The building features a pavilion-like annex on its northern side, adding to its unique charm. The four-wing layout is arranged around a covered atrium, creating a bright and welcoming interior space.
On the ground floor, visitors will find the large parcel hall, which serves as a spacious exhibition area. The first floor is divided into several smaller rooms, two of which have been preserved in their original size and decor, offering a glimpse into the building's historical past. The second floor houses the graphics cabinet, where an innovative drawer system significantly expands the available exhibition space.
The MEWO Kunsthalle opened with an exhibition dedicated to Josef Madlener, an artist from Memmingen-Amendingen. His works, especially his famous Christmas motifs, have been a recurring feature in the Kunsthalle's annual holiday exhibitions. Over the years, the Kunsthalle has hosted a diverse array of exhibitions, covering photography, typography, graphics, drawing, and sculpture.
Notable exhibitions since 2013 include Alles Maskerade! Fasching, Karneval & Mummenschanz, Josef Madlener: 'Fliegende Blätter' and other Caricatures, Ovid’s Girls, Artefakte: Bilder der Natur, and Sounds – Bilder Hören, Geräusche Sehen. Each exhibition brings a fresh perspective and a unique selection of works, ensuring that there is always something new to discover at the Kunsthalle.
The Kunsthalle's collections are equally impressive. It houses approximately 800 paintings and over 2,000 graphic works from the estate of Josef Madlener, which has been managed by the city of Memmingen since 1997. The Kunsthalle also boasts a significant collection of works by Max Unold, a painter associated with the New Objectivity movement, including 70 paintings and around 1,000 graphic works.
In addition to these, the Kunsthalle's depot includes graphic works from the 18th to the 20th century, featuring collections by Johann Gottlieb Prestel, his wife Maria Katharina Prestel, and Wolfgang Niesner. The Prestel collection, donated by Walter and Hildegard Prestel, comprises over 150 copper engravings, etchings, and drawings. The works of Wolfgang Niesner have been on loan from his widow, Friederike Niesner, since 2005, although they have yet to be featured in an exhibition.
A visit to the MEWO Kunsthalle is a journey through both contemporary and historical art, set within a building that is a piece of history in itself. The Kunsthalle's dynamic exhibition program ensures that there is always something new to see, making each visit a unique experience. Whether you are an art aficionado or simply looking to explore Memmingen's cultural offerings, the MEWO Kunsthalle is an essential stop on your itinerary.
In conclusion, the MEWO Kunsthalle is more than just an art gallery; it is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Memmingen and a beacon of contemporary artistic expression. Its historical setting, combined with its diverse and ever-changing exhibitions, makes it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the arts. So, step into this historical building and immerse yourself in the world of art at the MEWO Kunsthalle.
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